Poole Wheelers 10

Chris Ball (Biobike RT) came out on top in the Poole Wheelers 10 on the P415. Known locally as the Ski-Slope course, Ball set a super fast, course record time last year of 18.51. The wind that seems to have been blowing since the beginning of May put paid to a repeat ride this year. However, Ball’s time of 20.14 gave him a cushion of 44 seconds over Benjamin Pearce (Andover Wheelers), Bryce Dyer (VC ST Raphael) claimed third spot with 21.15. Claire Fraser (Army Cycling Union) with 27.14 won the ladies event.

Back at the HQ, Organiser Dave Wade spoke movingly of the late Rob Jefferies, who was tragically killed in a road accident. “As all of you probably know Poole Wheelers lost a very dear friend and member, Rob was not just an ordinary cyclist, he was a stalwart of British Cycling. One of the saddest days of my life was to receive Rob’s entry for this event the day after he died, it did bring a tear to my eye”. Gathered around the result board, everybody observed a minutes silence in Rob’s memory before a spontaneous round of applause.

BRIEF RESULTS

1, CHRIS BALL (BIOBIKE RT) 20.14
2, BENJAMIN PEARCE (ANDOVER WH) 20.59
3, BRYCE DYER (VC ST RAPHAEL) 21.15
4, ANDREW BRYSON (SOTONIA) 21.27
5, GARY DIGHTON (POOLE WH) 21.32
6, STEVE BIRTWISTLE (POOLE WH) 21.33
7, TERRY ICKE (POOLE WH) 21.37

Speaking after his winning ride Chris said "I was not going to race Rob was the only reason i rode, i kind of feel this is Robs race, but i am glad i rode, Rob was on my mind the whole way round.I was just going to ride round, at the start i was in a small gear but then i hit the hill and this red mist descended"